Meanwhile, Ashton get under way on Sunday when they travel to old rivals Werneth in what amounts to their big local derby in the Central Lancashire league.

And club secretary Alan Holt is hoping the club can at last recreate the glory days of the mid-90s when Bruce Roberts was the side's professional.

"Last season we struggled and as a result finished near the bottom of the league. Naturally you always look to improve on your previous placings which is what we are aiming for this time round," he said.

"Also, we have a tremendous youth section and over the next couple of years are looking for that to bear fruit. If we only get one or two coming through and making the grade the section will have done its job," he added.

The side has also been bolstered by two new overseas players, both of whom are expected to make an immediate impact.

Sri Lankan Anil Rideegammanagadera is recognised as a quality batsman in his native country having scored many runs for his local side, but remains an unknown quantity.

Completing the overseas connection is Shay Stuiven-Berg who comes highly recommended by an old Ashton favourite as Holt explained.

"Shane Deitz, who played for us two years ago, spotted Stuiven-Berg when he played alongside him for Adelaide recently and tipped us off.

"We found he wanted to come over and play for us and he arrives this Tuesday.

"He is 19 and also opens the batting for South Australia and also bowls a bit as well. You always take a bit of a gamble with overseas players but we're very happy with our signings," said Holt.

Having placed great store in their youth section, which continues to be well supported by the local council, the tide may just be beginning to turn in Ashton's favour.